Some of the quirkier episodes of Bristol Old Vic’s long history have played a key role in the launch its new membership offer.
The scheme’s three levels, each unlocking different benefits such as priority booking, special offers and discounts on tickets and food and drink for members from £3.75 a month, are called Orange, Lavender and Thunder. 
Chair of trustees Bernard Donoghue explained the stories behind the names at a reception for existing members at the theatre earlier this week.
Orange is from the fact that during its renovation in 2018, which came two years after the theatre celebrated its 250th anniversary, various items left behind by audiences were found, including candied orange peel. This was a favoured snack – and occasional projectile – of Bristol Old Vic crowds in days gone by. The Maltesers of their day, according to Bernard.
Lavender honours the trailblazing spirit of legendary Old Vic theatre manager Sarah McReady, who was known for her lavender-scented perfume. She is also remembered today for the pioneering achievements she made in her 20-year tenure at the theatre, taking it from strength to strength. It is said that Sarah’s ghost haunts the building and occasionally the scent of lavender can be detected.
Thunder comes from the Old Vic’s ‘thunder run’ – one of just three surviving in the UK and the only one still in use. These implements were used in the 18th century to create the sound of thunder that would echo around the auditorium whenever a production needed to conjure up a storm.
Bristol Old Vic head of individual giving Doug Middling said: “We decided on a revamp to our membership scheme after talking to many pre-existing members about why they supported us in this way.
“It wasn’t the discounts and benefits – although those are our way of saying thank you – the most important element of membership is the way in which it helps to fund the work we do beyond our major theatre productions – the grass roots development of new artist, or our work with young people and across Bristol communities.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supports us as a member, and we hope this relaunched offer helps people feel closer to our work.”
The membership levels, and their benefits, are:
Orange – for £3.75 a month members receive:
- 24hr priority booking on selected shows
- 10% discount at the Kitchen + Bar and 5% discount on tickets
- A free welcome tour on joining
- 1 x free programme per season
- invite to the annual Members’ Day plus exclusive talks and events
- Special offers and extended access to selected Bristol Old Vic On Screen shows
- Credit for another performance if unable to make a show
Lavender – for £6.25 a month:
- 48hr priority booking on selected shows
- 10% discount at the Kitchen + Bar
- Tiered discount on tickets (1-2 shows: 5%; 3-4 shows 10%; 5+ shows: 15% when booked in a single transaction)
- Free Welcome People’s Tour on joining (first year only)
- 2 x free programmes per season
- 1 x free ice cream
- Invitation to our annual Members’ Day plus exclusive talks and events
- Special offers and extended access to selected Bristol Old Vic On Screen shows
- Full ticket refund if unable to make a performance
Thunder – for £8 a month:
- 72hr priority booking on selected shows
- 10% discount at the Kitchen + Bar plus 5% discount on tickets
- Free Thunder Run Experience tour on joining
- 3 x free programmes per season
- 1 x free ice cream
- Invitation to annual Members’ Day and drinks reception, plus exclusive talks and events
- Special offers and extended access to selected Bristol Old Vic On Screen shows
- Full ticket refund if unable to make a performance
- Invitation to digital season launch
